Philosophy Bites

We are a highly social species: we need human contact. But do we have a right to it? In this episode of the Philosophy Bites podcast Kimberley Brownlee suggests that this is an ingredient in a minimally decent human life...

The philosopher Peter Singer is famous for his attack on speciesism, the alleged prejudice that many exhibit in favour of human interests when compared with the interests of other animals. Here Shelly Kagan outlines Singer's position and takes issue with it. In the process he makes some interesting points about prejudices in general.

In this engaging discussion, Susan James, an expert on Michel Foucault's philosophical contributions, dives into the intricacies of knowledge within Foucault's work. She unpacks Foucault's unique perspectives on punishment and the evolution of social discipline, examining how power shapes individual identities. The conversation also highlights Foucault's genealogical approach, shedding light on the historical context of knowledge and its influence on contemporary philosophy. Expect insights that challenge conventional ideas about power and knowledge!

How do you choose which course of action is best? It seems reasonable that if A is better than B, and B is better than C, A must be better than C. But is it? Larry Temkin challenges this idea, known as the axiom of transitivity.

William B. Irvine, a modern-day Stoic, discusses the relevance of Stoicism today. Topics include the origins of Stoicism, famous Stoics throughout history, managing grief, embracing positivity, and the goal and strategy of attaining tranquility through Stoicism.

Steven Lukes, an influential scholar known for his work on power, discusses its multifaceted nature. He highlights the difference between authority and genuine power, showing how compliance doesn’t equate to real influence. Lukes introduces a three-dimensional understanding of power, emphasizing its subtle role in shaping beliefs and perceptions. The conversation also touches on the impact of cultural norms on identity and the complexities of individual empowerment in the face of social structures, drawing from Foucault’s insights.

The historian and writer Theodore Zeldin gives his personal take on the relation betwen philosophy and history in this episode of the Philosophy Bites podcast.

What part do emotions play in our appreciation of art? Jesse Prinz explores the sense of wonder at artworks in this episode of the Philosophy Bites podcast.

What is a conspiracy? Why do conspiracies - real or imagined - matter to philsophy? Cassim Quaassam explores these questions in conversation with Nigel Warburton

Are all truths relative? That's an attractive idea for many people. Tim Williamson, Wykeham Professor of Logic at Oxford University discusses why and attempts to immunise us against sloppy thinking in this area.